Dear Friends:

Last month, within a two week period, West Virginia University (WVU) hosted both the President of the United States and the U.S Secretary of Energy! Approximately 5,000 people gathered at WVU’s Woodburn Circle to join with President Bush in bringing our country together on July 4 th. On July 7 th, U.S. Secretary of Energy, Samuel Bodman, visited WVU to present a $200,000, three-year research award and to highlight WVU’s role in the U.S. Department of Energy University Coal Research Program, to study high-temperature materials that could allow cleaner, more efficient electricity production from coal. WVU continues to be recognized as a leader in moving our country ahead through technology and research.

With the high prices of gasoline being the main topic in newspapers and magazines worldwide, people are becoming more interested in their alternatives to petroleum operated vehicles. Fortunately, there are alternatives and the technology strengthens daily.

It is a very exciting time within our industry! A few years ago we all believed that talk of fuel cell cars was something of the future. That future is getting closer! Last month we actually witnessed the first “Fuel Cell Family” as Honda leased a hydrogen-powered FCX to a family in California. While this vehicle was a prototype, and the fuel cell technology must advance significantly before being a viable option, this is a sign we are moving in a positive direction.

These times also strengthen the demand for the services of the National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium and we are working diligently to provide state-of-the-art training and educational outreach and support services. The need for alternative fuels and advanced technology vehicles is real and today there are viable options.

Join with us in making a difference. Please contact us with any questions or suggestions that you may have.

Sincerely,

Al Ebron
NAFTC Executive Director

The National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium is a pioneer and a national leader in promoting programs and activities that will lead to energy independence and the greater use of cleaner transportation. The NAFTC is the only nationwide alternative fuel vehicle and advanced technology vehicle training organization in the U.S.!

Our mission is to provide the training infrastructure for implementing the widespread use of alternative fuels, alternative fuel vehicles and advanced technology vehicles. Our effort to increase our nation’s energy security, as well as improve our air quality by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, is embodied in our motto “Because Clean Air and Energy Independence Matter.”

Founded in 1992, the NAFTC is headquartered at West Virginia University and presently consists of 25 National Training Centers (NTCs) spanning the country from New York to California. Each center provides Training with Impact through its experienced instructors and real-world shop facilities. Approximately 60 Affiliate and Associate members also support the NAFTC’s mission.

Click on the blue dots for more information.

NAFTC's National Headquarters, Morgantown, WV